Contractor Exam Questions And

CA C54 Ceramic And Mosaic Tile Contractor Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationale2026 Q&A| Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the most important factor when selecting a

tile adhesive?

• Color
• Texture
• Bond strength
• Brand

Answer: Bond strength

Rationale: The primary purpose of tile adhesive is to ensure tiles remain

firmly attached to the substrate, making bond strength critical.

• What is the recommended substrate for installing ceramic tile in wet

areas?

• Plywood
• Cement backer board
• Gypsum board
• Particleboard

Answer: Cement backer board

Rationale: Cement backer boards are water-resistant and provide a stable,

durable surface suitable for wet areas like showers and bathrooms. 1 / 3

• Which tool is best for cutting small intricate shapes in mosaic tile?
• Tile cutter
• Wet saw
• Tile nippers
• Grinder

Answer: Tile nippers

Rationale: Tile nippers allow for precise cutting of small or irregular

shapes, ideal for mosaic patterns.

• Which grout type is recommended for joints wider than 1/8 inch?
• Unsanded
• Sanded
• Epoxy
• Acrylic

Answer: Sanded

Rationale: Sanded grout contains fine sand particles that prevent cracking in

wider joints and improve durability.

• What is the primary purpose of a tile sealer?
• Enhances color
• Reduces slip
• Protects tile and grout from moisture and stains
• Speeds drying time

Answer: Protects tile and grout from moisture and stains

Rationale: Sealers penetrate the surface, preventing moisture absorption and

staining, especially on porous tiles.

• Which method is recommended for leveling uneven substrates before

tile installation?

• Sanding
• Self-leveling compound
• Painting
• Water soaking 2 / 3

Answer: Self-leveling compound

Rationale: Self-leveling compounds create a smooth, level surface necessary

for proper tile adhesion.

• Which tile layout is best for making a small room appear larger?
• Herringbone
• Diagonal
• Brick pattern
• Basket weave

Answer: Diagonal

Rationale: Diagonal layouts create the illusion of more space by drawing the

eye outward along angled lines.

• When installing tile over a concrete slab, what is the recommended

practice?

• Directly apply adhesive
• Clean and prime the slab
• Use only epoxy grout
• Sand the surface

Answer: Clean and prime the slab

Rationale: Cleaning and priming removes dust and ensures better adhesion

between the slab and the tile adhesive.

• What is the purpose of back buttering large format tiles?
• Reduce grout lines
• Improve adhesion
• Enhance color
• Prevent chipping

Answer: Improve adhesion

Rationale: Back buttering applies adhesive to the back of the tile, ensuring

full contact and strong adhesion to the substrate.

• Which safety equipment is essential when cutting tiles with a wet

saw?

• Gloves only
• / 3